‘Love locks’ remain while judge considers grand jury

A Norfolk judge is considering whether a novel legal procedure could be used to force removal of so-called “love locks” from a city pedestrian bridge.

Judge Everett A. Martin heard testimony from proponents of a special grand jury called just to consider the love locks issue, The Virginian-Pilot reported. Citizens of Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood claim the locks placed by couples on the railings of the Hague Bridge are a public nuisance. City officials disagree and say the locks can remain.

Martin reportedly raised concerns about the cost of summoning a special prosecutor if he appoints a special grand jury. He also questioned how the nuisance statute might be applied against public property.

Martin said he would look at the bridge himself as he considers this week whether to convene a grand jury.